Toyota RAV4 vs Lexus NX

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 presented a more robust and squared-off design compared to its predecessor, aligning with Toyota's SUV and truck lineup. It featured three distinct design themes: Core, Rugged, and Sport, each offering unique styling elements. The Core models maintained a more traditional RAV4 look with a cheese grater-like upper grille and recessed fog lights. The Rugged grade, paired with the Woodland trim, showcased a boxy design with a skid plate-like lower grille and all-terrain tires. The Sport style introduced the RAV4 GR Sport, exclusive to the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, with a sportier appearance inspired by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a choice between a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen, although climate controls were integrated into the touchscreen, potentially causing inconvenience.

The 2026 Lexus NX retained a fresh appearance despite being a few years into its second generation. Its design elements, including the spindle grille and LED daytime running lights, were well-integrated, offering a refined look compared to some German competitors. The NX was available in various powertrains, including non-hybrid, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models, with packages like F Sport 3 adding adaptive dampers and black 20-inch wheels. However, the base NX 350's interior didn't quite match the luxury expectations, with sport seats and aluminum pedals not significantly elevating the experience. The NX 350 Executive package offered leather upholstery and standard heated and ventilated front seats, enhancing comfort.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 featured an improved hybrid system with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, generating a combined 236 horsepower. It offered standard all-wheel drive and a smooth CVT, with paddle shifters on the Limited trim mimicking eight gear shifts. The RAV4 excelled in comfort with MacPherson front struts and a multi-link rear suspension, although it exhibited typical body roll in corners. The Woodland trim, exclusive to the Rugged style, included all-terrain tires and a tow hitch, enhancing its off-road capability. Fuel efficiency varied across trims, with the base LE rated at 5.5 L/100 km combined.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered a range of powertrains, with the NX 350 featuring a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower. Despite a respectable 7.0-second zero to 100 km/h time, the eight-speed automatic transmission felt sluggish. The NX 350h hybrid and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid models offered more compelling performance, with the latter achieving 304 horsepower and a 6.1-second zero to 100 km/h time. However, the F Sport 3 package's adaptive dampers provided a firm ride, and the steering lacked engagement, detracting from the overall driving experience.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 maintained the same dimensions as its predecessor but optimized interior space with clever storage solutions. It offered 1,070 litres of cargo space with the seats up and 1,994 litres with them down. The interior featured deep door pockets and a centre console with flexible storage options. While the RAV4 accommodated four passengers comfortably, five passengers felt more cramped, and the panoramic sunroof reduced headroom slightly.

The 2026 Lexus NX provided competitive passenger space but had some compromises. Rear-seat headroom was comparable to rivals, but legroom was slightly less generous. The front seats felt constrained, and outward visibility was hindered by the deep dashboard and large mirrors. Cargo space measured 643 litres with the seats up and 1,328 litres with them down, trailing some competitors. The NX's towing capacity was also lower than class-leading figures.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The new Arene operating system offered improved responsiveness and customizable tiles for frequently used information. The Voice Assistant required a subscription but responded to a wide range of prompts.

The 2026 Lexus NX came with a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 14-inch display available on higher packages. It included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless device charging, and a head-up display on higher trims. The voice recognition system responded to "Hey Lexus" prompts but had limitations in controlling certain functions. The instrument cluster efficiently presented information, although it resembled older analog displays.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. These included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The system's enhancements improved responsiveness and detection range, contributing to the RAV4's strong safety record. Crash test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were pending.

The 2026 Lexus NX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane centring assist. Additional features like park assist and a 360-degree camera system were available. The NX received a 2025 Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS, with a lower score in the moderate overlap front crash test. NHTSA ratings were not yet available.